Smugglers Beware: Stolen Hoodia Seeds are Failing to Grow

In an ironic twist, some crooks have found that smuggled Hoodia Gordonii seeds from southern Africa are failing to grow outside of their home environment. At a recent National Council meeting in Africa, the topic was discussed by council members. It is hoped that the failure of these smuggled seeds to grow is a self-protective genetic measure. The Namibian-grown Hoodia Gordonii seeds are believed to be smuggled by those wishing to develop appetite suppressant products without going through the normal policies and procedures governing exporting native flora and fauna. On the one hand, desire for the plant and its seeds is understandable - demand for products containing Hoodia Gordonii has been at an all-time high in both the UK and the USA. However, the main appetite-suppressing ingredient, labeled P57 by pharmaceutical company Pfizer in 1996, was rights-released in 2002. Therefore, the plant extract is available to those wanting to use it. But as the plant itself has shown, taking short cuts will not reap the desired rewards for those trying to smuggle the seeds. Nevertheless, the National Council is discussing taking further measures to prevent further smuggling of Hoodia Gordonii and any other African flora and fauna that deserves protection from criminals and others with low integrity.

Beware: Mixing OTCs and Rx May Be Dangerous to Your Health

Whether you’re a member of the medical or health professions or not, OTC and Rx are two medical abbreviations you’re most likely aware of. If not, here’s a quick tutorial: OTC is short-hand for over-the-counter, or non-prescription; and Rx is short for prescription. With the tragic death, in early 2008, of famous actor Heath Ledger, the consequences of careless mixing of medications and supplements was again brought to light. In a weight and fitness-obsessed culture, where millions spend billions to lose weight, suppress appetite, and stay awake longer in an effort to get more done, consumers are utilising more medications than ever. With promises that sound too good to be true, combined with affordability, convenience, and high accessibility, over-the-counter medications, aids, and supplements are selling better than ever. There’s also still the Western notion of “more is better”. Consumers of products containing Hoodia Gordonii should be careful and pay attention to the ingredients list on any of their supplements. Combining stimulants, for example, can be unnecessary at least, dangerous at most. Most products have websites these days and these tend to be highly profiled on product packaging. So the next time you’re considering a new medication, supplement, or aid - take a few minutes to look up the product’s website and find the answers you need. An informed consumer is a safer consumer.